State Fair of West Virginia brings western Virginia along for the ride

What would the West Virginia State Fair be, each year, without all of the Virginians in attendance? Would you believe…A lot less crowded? But the crowds are one of the things that make state fairs fun…

FAIRLEA, W. Va.—

Every August, thousands of people flock to the State Fair of West Virginia, and many of them don’t even call the Mountain State their home. The summer tradition has become a favorite for folks on the other side of the state line.

Whether you crave the thrill of a carnival ride, the speed of harness racing or the unique sound of a one man band, there’s something for everyone at the State Fair of West Virginia. Between 20 and 25 percent of fair goers come from Virginia.

The State Fair of West Virginia traces it’s history back to 1854 when it was the Greenbrier County Fair. That first Fair was organised by the Greenbrier Agricultural Society and held in Mr. Nesmith’s Grove. You can read the history of that first fair at the State Fair’s website.

LEWISBURG, WV (08/29/2012)– The 88th annual State Fair of West Virginia, themed “Memories that Grow…Year After Year,” proved to be a success, while providing thousands of great memories for fairgoers! “I think people needed to exhale and have fun!” stated Chief Executive Officer, Marlene Jolliffe. “It was a long challenging summer and we are grateful that people decided to celebrate the end of summer by visiting the fair. Good weather combined with a strong free entertainment program, and a popular grandstand concert series proved to be a winning combination.”

Final audited gate attendance is not available, however, attendance is projected between 185,000 and 190,000. Ticketed grandstand events drew over 25,000 with one sellout and one “near” sellout. Fairgoers boosted food sales by 3% setting another food gross record and the Reithoffer carnival midway saw a 1% increase in carnival revenue despite rain on opening day.